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Every community in America could benefit from Umuganda because it is not just about solving practical problems, it's about recovering a sense of shared ownership for our communities and responsibility for where we live.

As National Women's Month comes to an end, I am reminded of the importance of mentoring young women and helping them find their voice. Women are speaking up for themselves and their worth, and it is important that we empower young women to do the same.

All of these things can and do affect our general happiness levels, but I would like to propose that there are two things that make us the most happy as human beings: helping others and following our passions.

My definition of impact is solidarity. It's not for a spotlight, a salary, or even to feel good: it's about being an ally, shifting your priorities away from yourself, and helping others who want your help, simply because you can.

One Monday per month Stacy Sakellariou, owner of Beauty Bar, opens her salon to provide complimentary services to women who are battling cancer. Sole Ryeders started this program, which is modeled after Mondays at Racine on Long Island, as a natural extension of its fundraising to advance cancer research and to support women battling cancer.

How do they regain their balance, build up their confidence, and imagine a brighter future? There are no simple answers, of course. But we do know programs that give young men and women a sense of empowerment and hope are making a real difference in lives and communities everywhere.

Skeptical that this schism exists? Think again. A 2014 Washington Post/Kaiser Family Foundation poll found that 55 percent had served in the military felt disconnected from civilian life. That number increased to 64 percent for those who had served in combat.

Nyasia shouldn't have to wish for warm, fuzzy boots. But she does. And every day I am reminded that there are thousands of other kids in foster care and group homes around our country that are just like her. Their wishes are so simple it can break your heart.

Workshop Houston, which has been running for more than a decade, has helped approximately 1,000 students in a neighborhood where extracurricular activities are sparse and one in four families live below the poverty line.

I remember my first summer volunteering at the age of 12 for my local YMCA summer camp. Being the youngest of three and seeing my older siblings head off to work each day as camp counselors, I was determined to get in on the action and not be left at home alone.